Picking a Flavor of Linux

Q. I want to install Linux on an old PC to get a few more years out of it, but I don’t know which version to use. What is the difference between Ubuntu and Mint for a new user and are there any free guides to using either?

A. Linux, an alternative computer operating system to Windows and Mac OS X, comes in many versions, or so-called distributions. Some Linux distributions are easier to use than others and each one has its ardent followers, but Linux Mint and Ubuntu have emerged as two of the easiest options for those new to the system.